A key feature in United's recent run is that they've played teams who haven't pressed high. That plays right into their hands because United's best quality is their positional play against low blocks thanks to ten Hag's structure, but their weakness hasn't been targeted.
The real test comes in their next run of games because of that. Ten Hag's team struggle when pressed high because they lack the reliable technical quality to play out from the back and are often passive in the press. It means that they often don't create the environment they want
However, they're still of course dangerous in these games because they do have some good technicians, play within a good structure, and have some top outlets like Rashford, but the point remains - their technical game will be exposed, as will their passive press.
Be wary of that
Be wary of that
Teams that have the quality to press high, play through United's passive press, and keep the ball themselves will undeniably take massive control away from United in each phase of the game.
A downturn in form is inevitable - ten Hag will do very well to stay in the top four.
A downturn in form is inevitable - ten Hag will do very well to stay in the top four.
I've always maintained that United and ten Hag shouldn't be judged on Champions League qualification this season, much like Arteta's Arsenal last season. If they overachieve and get it, great, but the likelihood of that occurring is very tight indeed.
In fact, it's only a real possibility because of the unexpected stumbling of Spurs and Liverpool.
Both of those teams have first XI's that are more conducive to winning games in the long-run and getting into those Champions League spots, but injuries have really cost them.
Both of those teams have first XI's that are more conducive to winning games in the long-run and getting into those Champions League spots, but injuries have really cost them.
Loading suggestions...